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When you've been an integral part of a sitcom phenomenon that's been popular for over a decade, it can be easy for people to just see an actor in the confines of their character. It may seem impossible to look at Jim Parsons and not think of Sheldon Cooper, but his work in "Hidden Figures" and "The Boys in the Band" shows an actor that's able to break free beyond the "bazinga" stigma. Simon Helberg has certainly had one of the most interesting careers of the "Big Bang Theory" bunch, having directed his own feature ("We'll Never Have Paris") in addition to starring in films directed by Leos Carax ("Annette") and the Coen Brothers ("A Serious Man").

But since the show's finale, it's Kaley Cuoco who has remained the most prevalent in the spotlight. Although she made waves in 2020 with the critically acclaimed Max original series "The Flight Attendant," she's...

The "Bat-embargo." If you're a fan of the classic DC Animated Universe (Dcau), the words probably feel like a chill in the night. If you're not, then let me explain.

See, DC Comics can be fickle about which of its characters can appear on television, and where. During the 2000s, this mostly impacted Batman and his supporting cast. Kevin Conroy's Batman was a regular on "Justice League Unlimited," which aired alongside the unconnected cartoon "The Batman," and Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" marked the return of the Dark Knight after his 1990s silver screen fall.

Reportedly, then-dc Comics President Paul Levitz was worried that kids would be confused about all of these Batmen. How would they be able to tell multiple versions of the same characters apart when they were all appearing at the same time? Hence, the Bat-embargo came into effect around 2004 (when "The Batman" debuted and "Justice League...

Days of Our Lives spoilers and updates reveal Shane Donovan (Charles Shaughnessy) wouldn’t return Marlena Evans’ (Deidre Hall) calls in Friday, March 7th’s episode.

But the question is, why-John Black (Drake Hogestyn) dropped off the grid; might Shane have as well, and the person not returning calls isn’t Shane?

Marlena and Steve Set To Track Down Shane In DC

After that worrying experience in which Marlena fears the worst-and she’s absolutely correct-Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols) decides to go to DC with her.

There, they will confront Shane in person and try to get more information where John was supposed to be, he had been in deep cover for several months on a secret mission.

Most Dool viewers know that likely in the next few weeks, confirmation of John’s death will be revealed-because of the real life death of Drake Hogestyn.

But the backstory...

The Batman villain Harley Quinn made her debut on the "Batman: The Animated Series" episodes "Joker's Favor", where she was voiced by actress Arleen Sorkin. The character was envisioned as a clown-like moll for the Joker, and was given a ditzy personality and a broad Noo Yawk accent. She proved to be so popular that she was eventually incorporated into Batman comic books, and soon grew to have titles of her own. Over the years, Harley Quinn has appeared in multiple TV shows and movies, most recently played in live-action by Lady Gaga in "Joker: Folie à Deux." 

Fun trivia: Harley Quinn was actually preceded by a very, very similar character called Prank (Corinne Bohrer), a clown-like moll to a very Joker-like villain named the Trickster (Mark Hamill) on a 1991 episode of "The Flash." Whether or not the makers of "Batman: The Animated Series" were aware of Prank is a matter of speculation.

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What's the best superhero TV show? Satirical gorefest "The Boys" has been a smash hit, and in 2024, Marvel Studios released one of its best projects ever with "X-Men '97." But for a lot of other geeks, the answer to this question is still one of the classics.

For as much stock as you can put in IMDb, the site's list of highest user-rated TV shows puts "Batman: The Animated Series" in 24th place. With a rating of 9/10, it's the highest ranking superhero program on the list. "Batman" is also the sixth-highest ranking animated series after "Avatar: The Last Airbender" (which also featured Mark Hamill voicing a super-villain), "Bluey," "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood," "Rick and Morty," and "Attack on Titan."

Created by Bruce Timm and Eric Radomski, "Batman: The Animated Series" debuted in 1992 and ran for 85 episodes. The show spawned a whole DC Animated Universe,...

With future seasons of Sylvester Stallone's popular crime drama Tulsa King confirmed, a show in which he plays the head of a mafia family, we can't help but be reminded of one of the actor's earlier portrayals of a gangster. By 1991, Sylvester Stallone had already starred in five Rocky movies and three Rambo flicks, cementing himself as a bona fide action star who seemed most at home on screen when he was hitting something — or rather, someone. This is part of the reason why it was so shocking when his next project was as the lead role in Oscar, a comedy from one of the great filmmakers of the genre, director John Landis.

What Happened to 'Oscar?'

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Oscar PG

Oscar is a 1991 comedy film directed by John Landis, starring Sylvester Stallone as Angelo "Snaps" Provolone,...

Although it is more common for movie stars to voice act in animated films, there are several animated TV shows that feature A-list actors among their cast. These shows can include Western cartoons, but also anime as well. In fact, some of the best anime series of all time have incredible voice acting performances and include talented actors among their casts.

Some cartoons are known for their funny characters, creating memorable stories that are meant to make people laugh. Other cartoons are based on violent movies, somehow transforming their narratives into something suitable for children to watch. Regardless, the addition of popular actors to any project brings a certain amount of notoriety to any project, animated or live-action.

Batman: The Animated Series (1992) Starring Mark Hamill

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Batman: The Animated Series

Batman: The Animated Series is an award-winning adaptation of the Batman mythos.

Welcome to the 175th edition of Adventure(s) Time, where we examine beloved animated series and their comic cousins. This week, the debut of the villainess who, in some parallel world, became Superman's Harley Quinn. Just not this world. And if you have any suggestions for the future, let me hear them. Just contact me on Twitter.

Debuting on September 13, 1997, "Livewire" comes from Superman: The Animated Series' second season, courtesy of writers Evan Dorkin & Sarah Dyer and director Curt Geda. Arguably, creating new characters wasn't a huge concern for the producers of Superman, just as their earlier priorities on Batman: The Animated Series focused more on adapting the classic cast members than creating new friends and foes.

Still, Batman introduced fans to Renee Montoya and Harley Quinn, which is certainly a respectable pedigree, and Superman's debut season brought us Mercy Graves, Lex Luthor's loyal (and lethal) assistant. "Livewire," originally...

You think with a title like “Folie à Deux,” the “Joker” sequel would at least give audiences the truly twisted, crazy backstory of Harley Quinn. But Todd Phillips fumbles the legendary noir-adjacent origins of the crime queen-pin of Gotham despite the film’s marketing campaigns promising Harley’s unhinged glory.

Harley has only been brought to the big screen by way of two actresses, with Lady Gaga’s turn in “Folie à Deux” marking the second live-action iteration of the character. Margot Robbie originated the role in “Suicide Squad,” followed by appearances in “Birds of Prey” and “The Suicide Squad.” While Harley’s roots were only alluded to via flashback in “Suicide Squad” with Jared Leto playing the Joker, the film “Birds of Prey” captured the essence of the character the most — but only when Harley became liberated from her relationship with “Mr. J.”

Robbie later said that she hoped...

Though Harley Quinn originated in Batman: The Animated Series, she is now a much bigger part of the DC Universe. Harley has become so popular that she's both starred in and headlined many shows and films over the past 32 years. Her very first appearance was in the Batman: The Animated Series episode "Joker's Favor," where she was played by the late Arleen Sorkin. Per Harley co-creator Paul Dini, Sorkin inspired the character through a dream sequence showing her dressed as a harlequin on Days Of Our Lives.

Dini explained: I thought about a character kind of like her persona at the time, which was the snappy, wisecracking blonde." Harley has certainly evolved since her introduction as the Joker's henchwoman, with Margot Robbie, Lady Gaga, and more putting their stamp on the character. However, having so many interpretations brings the question: who did it best? Curated by revisiting previous DC media,...

What’s next for the Joker in a world that doesn’t yet have a Batman? Todd Phillips’ 2019 phenomenon Joker still took place in Gotham City and involved the wealthy Wayne family, but set the story years before son Bruce might first don the cowl, in a purportedly more realistic...

Some years after the events of Joker, Arthur Fleck languishes in prison even though his infamy spreads throughout Gotham. In a drug-induced haze, he wastes away in Arkham Asylum as he’s evaluated if he’s mentally competent to stand trial.

His lawyer, Maryanne Stewart, pushes the narrative that Arthur has a split personality and that his darker half, the Joker, is responsible for the crimes he has committed. Completely spent of any emotion or care, Arthur does not protest. He is a shadow of his former self.

However, things change when Arthur meets fellow inmate Lee Quinzel. She is an obsessed fan of the Joker and risks punishment to get to know him. When the two meet, it is like fire and fuel combining – literally and metaphorically.

Lee snaps Arthur out of his daze, and he finds a new reason to live and fight for his freedom. But as...

Who is the Joker? Ever since being introduced in the comics as Batman’s first and foremost foe in 1940, this question has never truly been answered. Joker’s backstory is forever foggy, multiple stories from a cackling unreliable narrator, the truth left to fizz in a vat of acid. Todd Phillips’ darkly beautiful 2019 standalone spin-off movie Joker offered an unexpected new backstory for the supervillain, heavily inspired by Alan Moore’s Batman: The Killing Joke and Martin Scorsese’s The King Of Comedy: introducing us to Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), a sad clown abandoned by a cruel world, taking on the Joker mantle almost out of sheer desperation.

So, who is Arthur Fleck now? The amusingly Nouvelle Vague-esque title Folie À Deux alludes to a burgeoning romance, but also his fragmenting identity crisis. Central to this new film is a question of self: is the Joker simply a delusional character living inside him,...

"I used to think Joker: Folie Deux was a musical, now I realize it's a f**king drama with music," to paraphrase Joaquin Phoenix's famous line in Joker. Director Todd Phillips returns to theaters this year with the eagerly awaited sequel, Joker: Folie Deux, with Phoenix returning alongside Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. Since its conception, the sequel has been marketed as a full-blown musical, but Phillips says that label isn't entirely accurate.

Todd Phillips spoke with Variety about the highly anticipated sequel to his Oscar-winning comic book movie. The term "musical" brings with it connotations of big song and dance numbers where every single extra breaks out into a perfectly executed dance routine. In Joker: Folie Deux, that is not the case. Phillips explained that the musical numbers are formed through Arthur (Phoenix) and Harley's (Lady Gaga) intimate communication. Don't expect everyone at Arkham to start dancing with each other.

Batman: Caped Crusader reimagines Gotham City as classic film noir with 1940s technology and fashion. The show reinvents Harley Quinn as a menacing psychiatrist with a disturbing background and goon squad. Harley becomes a formidable foe for Batman and Barbara Gordon, moving away from her past with the Joker.

The following reveals major spoilers for Batman: Caped Crusader, now streaming on Amazon Prime.

Batman: Caped Crusader delivers a new take on old favorites in more ways than one. In returning the character to his early roots, the showrunners have re-imagined Gotham City as classic film noir, complete with 1940s technology and fashion. It draws inspiration from the legendary Batman: The Animated Series, and even shares a co-creator in Bruce Timm. Its true origins lie in the character's earliest days, and the often-weird adventures Bob Kane and Bill Finger came up for him.

Along the way, the series has reinvented many of Batman's supporting cast,...

Plot: After a family tragedy, socialite Bruce Wayne transforms into The Batman, where his crusade for justice spawns unforeseen ramifications.

Review: The original Batman: The Animated Series is considered by many, myself included, to be one of the best cartoon series ever. It didn’t pander, it had an iconic look, it had voice talent that included legends like Mark Hamill, Rodd McDowall, Paul Williams, Michael Ansara, and as Batman the voice of the late, great Kevin Conroy.

Btas would be the forerunner to other iconic animated series like Justice League, Batman Beyond, and Superman The Animated Series. It would produce feature films as well, like The Mask of Phantasm. It would be the birthplace of Harley Quinn, who has become a DC live-action film staple. But she got her start here in the guise of Arleen Sorkin.

What I’m saying is that Btas is a hard act to follow.

Streaming on: Prime Video

Episodes viewed: 10 of 10

It’s a testament to the timelessness of Batman that he and his carnivalesque rogues’ gallery is open to all manner of interpretations. The 1940s-set Batman: Caped Crusader makes the most out of that fact. Developed by Bruce Timm, best known for co-creating the landmark ’90s classic Batman: The Animated Series with Paul Dini, it feels like a visual offshoot of their past work. The Gotham of the previous Bat-show (nominally set in the present day) was designed to look like it existed out of time; this 1940s Gotham, on the other hand, takes that old-school aesthetic literally.

Timm’s design sensibilities and unique approach make the show feel familiar yet different. With animators taking their cue from Golden Age comic designs, the art direction is angular and expressionist, full of shadows and Art Deco architecture. The silhouettes of its character designs favour square jaws,...

A new incarnation of Harley Quinn is heading to the big screen this fall. Joker: Folie Deux, the follow-up to 2019's Joker, will introduce Lady Gaga as the Harley Quinn to Joaquin Phoenix's Joker.

In an interview with Access Hollywood, Gaga commented on her role as the new Harley in Joker: Folie Deux. Referring to the character as "Lee," coinciding with reports that she wanted to be referred to on the set by that name, Gaga described the incarnation as a "vulnerable, sweet person" who means a lot to her. While the "Bad Romance" singer didn't want to give too much away, she teased that her performance in the sequel is far unlike anything else that fans have ever seen from her.

#LadyGaga is giving insight into her "authentic" version of Harley Quinnin the upcoming "Joker" sequel pic.twitter.com/fJzNCJ5jk5 Access Hollywood (@accesshollywood) May 24, 2024

Related Batman:...

Although there has been a plethora of onscreen adaptations of the Batman mythos, to many, the 1992 series still remains the definitive version of the character and his rouges’ gallery. While most of it had to do with Bruce Timm and Paul Dini’s brilliance, one cannot undermine the contribution of the amazing voice cast, which involved the likes of Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, Arleen Sorkin, etc.

For that, we have Andrea Romano to thank, who served as casting and voice director on the acclaimed show. However, getting the tone of the show right took Romano a while, as this was unlike anything she had been part of before.

Getting Bruce Timm’s Vision Right Took Andrea Romano a Few Episodes

Andrea Romano | Credit: Wikimedia Commons

It’s hard to separate Batman from his dark brooding identity nowadays, but this wasn’t exactly the case three decades back. Andrea Romano, who...

Quick Links Why Joker 2 Needs to Look at Harley Quinn's Best Story What Fans Want Out of the Next Joker Sequel What Fans Can Expect from Joker: Folie à Deux Joker: Folie à Deux is coming soon and plans to include a new iteration of Harley Quinn. This is both a great chance to see a new take of htecharacter but also an opportunity to explore some of her best stories. Joker: Folie à Deux could set a cinematic Haryley Quinn off on a new footing and law the groundwork for future iterations of the anti-villain.

As Joker: Folie à Deux returns for an encore and Harley Quinn slides back into the spotlight, it comes with expectations that fans want to see on the silver screen. In Batman’s nearly 90-year history, few characters have made such an impact or stole the show more than the beloved Harley Quinn.

Days of Our Lives spoilers and updates tease as Doug Williams’ (Bill Hayes) memorial will air in December, will Bo Brady (Peter Reckell) wake up from his coma in time to attend? And will Hope Brady (Kristian Alfonso) come with him?

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers – Filming Underway

Since Bill Hayes passed away a couple of months ago, filming is now underway for a series of episodes dedicated to him and Doug Williams, which will air in December.

Fans can’t imagine a memorial to Doug without his daughter Hope not in attendance-but she’s been by Bo’s side for many months as he’s been in a coma.

Although some Days vets have confirmed and are already filming, others have expressed interest but nothing has been released save for a couple of actors.

Doug’s memorial won’t be the same if Hope doesn’t show up and...

“Joker: Folie à Deux” drops its first trailer, with Joaquin Phoenix reprising his award-winning supervillain role. Lady Gaga will be playing Dr. Harleen Quinzel, aka Harley Quinn. Given Gaga’s New York roots, I expected her to have a Brooklyn accent, but she didn’t. Don’t expect her to sound like Arleen Sorkin, Tara Strong, or Margot Robbie’s version. Perhaps the accent isn’t present yet because she hasn’t fully transitioned into Harley; she’s still the psychiatric doctor. Zazie Beetz who is Joker’s love interest Sophie Dumond in the first film will also return. Are we going to have a love triangle? The first film finally gave Joaquin Phoenix his flowers because it won him Best Actor at the Oscars and other Award Winning bodies. It is hard to top the first movie so they decided to try something new with this sequel. It is going to be a musical.

Fans of Harley Quinn are divided over Lady Gaga's depiction without her classic New York accent in Joker: Folie à Deux. Some argue that David Ayer's portrayal of Harley Quinn, played by Margot Robbie, has already harmed the character. Others point out the importance of Harley's origins, where she was voiced by Arleen Sorkin using her natural voice.

Joker: Folie à Deux is due to release later this year, and with the latest teasers revealing Lady Gaga speaking as DC's Harley Quinn, fans are already fighting over her apparent lack of accent. Harley Quinn debuted in Batman: The Animated Series in 1992 and has since become one of DC's most recognizable characters. This has given rise to a significant fan base that can seemingly be quite stringent about keeping Harley as true to her origins as possible, which includes her distinctive New York accent.

In an audio snippet...

Todd Phillips’s hotly anticipated supervillain sequel “Joker: Folie à Deux” has secured itself an R rating from the MPA, as per Deadline. This is not too much of a surprise, as the 2019 smash “Joker” remains the top-grossing R-rated picture in history. Somewhat surprising, however, was the reason given by the “we’re not a censorship organization” censorship organization.

In addition to “strong violence”, “language” (sure), and “some sexuality” (okay), the group cited “brief full nudity.” Full, eh? Just how much of a clown show will we be seeing here?

“Joker: Folie à Deux”’s big draw for most audiences will be Lady Gaga’s turn as Harlene Quinzel (aka Harley Quinn) the Bugs Bunny-like psychiatrist who falls in love with the Clown Prince of Crime. Margot Robbie played the fan-favorite character in the “Suicide Squad” and “Birds of Prey” films, while Kaley Cuoco voices her in the not-for-kids animated series.

The character of Harley Quinn — a harlequin-clad moll for the Joker — first appeared on "Batman: The Animated Series" in the 1992 episode "Joker's Favor." She was played by voice actress Arleen Sorkin, who gave the character a Brooklyn-adjacent "bubblehead" voice that immediately struck viewers and quickly earned the character fans. Harley Quinn was very similar in look and presentation to a character named Prank (Zoey Clark), the kooky moll of the Trickster on the 1990 series "The Flash." Her origin story was simple: Dr. Harleen Quinzel served as the Joker's psychiatrist, and he had such a powerful personality, that she abandoned ordinary life to become his supervillainess girlfriend.

Harley would appear in only nine episodes of "Batman: Tas," but she eventually began appearing in DC Comics. In recent years, Harley has become arguably a more popular character than the Joker and has formed a life of her own, breaking up with the...

A tribute to actor Kevin Conroy is one of the Easter Eggs you can find in Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League when you explore the city of Metropolis. The iconic voice of Batman throughout Batman: The Animated Series and the Batman: Arkham titles tragically passed away before the release of this game. As a result, developer Rocksteady included a lasting tribute to the man behind the cowl.

Batman was well known to be among every confirmed character for Suicide Squad: KtJL months before the game's official launch. However, Kevin Conroy's sudden passing turned another dominating role as the caped crusader into a posthumous performance. Those looking to view the tribute left by the development team will have to carefully search within the boundaries of their map.

Related 5 Ways Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League Is Like Batman Arkham (& 5 Ways It's Different) Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is...

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League introduces new DC characters to the Arkhamverse, including members of the Justice League. The game features talented voice actors reprising their roles, such as Tara Strong as Harley Quinn and Kevin Conroy as Batman. Other notable actors, like Debra Wilson and Nolan North, portray characters like Amanda Waller and Superman, respectively, enhancing the game's storytelling.

The latest title in Rocksteady's Arkhamverse, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, has an impressive roster of DC characters. While some such as Batman or Harley Quinn have appeared in the previous Batman: Arkham games, there are several who are being introduced to the Arkhamverse for the first time, like the remaining Justice League members. Rocksteady's character work and storytelling throughout the series has been a large part of why the Batman: Arkham games have been so successful, and the acting talent present has played a large part in this.

In the eyes of many, Margot Robbie is the defacto actress to play Harley Quinn on the silver screen. However, titans of talent, the likes of Arleen Sorkin, Tara Strong, Kaley Cuoco, Mia Sara, Melissa Rauch, Kang-Ji-young, Gillian Jacobs, and more, have all helped make Dr. Harleen Quinzel a beloved and lasting part of pop culture. While some would prefer Robbie to continue playing Harleen Quinn until the end of time, the Suicide Squad and Birds of Prey actress says she loves the idea of different actresses portraying the former Arkham Asylum psychologist-turned-criminal mastermind.

Speaking with Variety about the character’s future, including Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Harleen for Todd Phillips’ Joker: Folie à Deux, Robbie says it’s a dream come true to see the character move beyond her contribution.

“I always wanted Harley to be a character that would get passed on to other actresses to play,...

Harley Quinn isn't done having fun yet: the animated Max supervillain series has just been renewed for season 5. The show's fourth season concluded in September with an episode dedicated to original Harley voice actor Arleen Sorkin, in addition to the formation of the Gotham City Sirens within the DC series' universe. Now, a fifth season has been formally announced via press release.

Max's Executive VP of Original Comedy and Adult Animation Suzanna Makos shared a statement about the renewal, saying, "The talented 'Harley Quinn' team has once again succeeded in delivering a season that builds on everything that has come before while still feeling fresh and inventive." Makos also seemed to hint that season 5 might already be in the production process, as she concluded, "We couldn't be more excited for the fans to see what they've accomplished in season 5."

Read more: The 20 Best Batman Comics You Need To Read

Could...

This year has, unfortunately, been filled with a slew of heartbreaking celebrity deaths. In October, "Friends" fans were shocked by the sudden death of Matthew Perry at age 54. Actors Richard Roundtree, Suzanne Somers, and Piper Laurie also died, as did musician Rudolph Isley.

In September, "Harry Potter" star Michael Gambon, "NCIS" actor David McCallum, musicians Steve Harwell and Jimmy Buffett, and 702 singer Irish Grinstead all died. In August, actor Arleen Sorkin, "The Price is Right" host Bob Barker, "This Is Us" actor Ron Cephas Jones, and musician DJ Casper, the man behind the 1998 party hit "Cha Cha Slide," died as well. The month before, we lost actors Angus Cloud and Paul Reubens, famed singers Tony Bennett, Sinéad O'Connor, and Jane Birkin, and musician Coco Lee. News of their deaths followed that of beloved actor Alan Arkin, who died on June 30. Also in June, reality star Anna Shay and "Everwood" actor Treat Williams died,...

Lady Gaga has caused a stir by dressing like Harley Quinn in real life, generating excitement on social media for her role in Joker: Folie à Deux. Gaga's casting as Harley Quinn marks the second big-screen interpretation of the iconic DC antihero following Margot Robbie in the DC Extended Universe. The upcoming film will delve into Harley Quinn's troubled backstory and her deep connection with Joaquin Phoenix's Joker character.

Pop singer and Joker: Folie à Deux star Lady Gaga has caused a stir after being spotted dressing like Harley Quinn in real life. Following on from 2019’s critically acclaimed Joker, the unexpected sequel has cast Gaga as Dr. Harleen Quinzel, better known as Harley Quinn, a psychiatrist assigned to treat Joaquin Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck who ends up forming a twisted romantic attachment to him. Currently scheduled to be released in October 2024, Gaga’s casting marks the second big-screen...

Batman: The Animated Series introduced Harley Quinn, a character now widely adored, despite initial resistance from DC Comics. Quinn's debut was controversial as it humanized the Joker, her inclusion changing his chaotic and evil persona. Harley Quinn's popularity stems from her evolving storyline, transforming from a villain to an anti-hero seeking independence and a fresh identity.

Batman: The Animated Series made Harley Quinn one of the most beloved DC characters despite the fact that she was an original creation for the beloved DC series. Harley Quinn was first introduced as the Joker's girlfriend and sidekick, but in recent DC media, she has become a more independent character. Harley is incredibly popular, whether it's the live-action version played by Margot Robbie, the video game version voiced by Tara Strong, or any number of her other interpretations. However, DC wasn't immediately convinced that her introduction to the canon was a good idea.

Modern Family co-creator Christopher Lloyd is sharing loving memories of his life wife, Days of Our Lives alum Arleen Sorkin, following her death last month. The couple met when they were both hired as staff writers on a sitcom, Lloyd reveals in an essay for Variety. “My name is Arleen, and I’m an empath,” she told him at lunch on the first day. “I hear a clicking in your jaw that may be Tmj. Here is the number of a dentist who can help.” In his remembrance, Lloyd recounts Sorkin’s many achievements from her life before and during their relationship: She went from high-school dancer to shoe model to cabaret member to Days star. She held the center spot on Hollywood Squares. She produced an off-Broadway play, co-created the sitcom Fired Up, and co-wrote the Jennifer Aniston film Picture Perfect. And, of course, she was the original voice of Harley Quinn.

When you arrive at home on a Tuesday evening and have to double-check your own address because there is a line of valet parkers in front, one of whom hands you a ticket, and when you proceed into your home of find a crowd of well-dressed people, most of whom you do not know, and an orangutan sitting on your chair at the head of the table — when all of this happens and you’re not really that surprised, there is a better than average chance that you are married to Arleen Sorkin.

The occasion on that Tuesday was a hastily arranged fundraiser for a South African human (and animal) rights organization, and the orangutan was by no means the only luminary I was surprised to find sitting in my chair over the three decades I spent with my big-hearted wife.

Wasn’t it only six months earlier that I...

Harley Quinn Season 4's attempts at heroic arcs have done a disservice to its supervillain characters and its overall tonal identity. Harley and her ex-boyfriend, the Joker, have undergone many life changes since they separated in the first season. But in Season 4, the two villains had a change of heart that has compromised the show's narrative.

The Harley Quinn animated series highlights the life of Harley Quinn and her girlfriend, Poison Ivy, as they pursue their nefarious passions in Gotham City. The show's interpretations of DC villains have usually deviated from the original comic book counterparts for comedic purposes. However, Harley and the Joker's newfound life ambitions have struggled to be compelling in the series' fourth season.

Related: Arleen Sorkin Was Never Just the Voice of Harley Quinn - She Was Made For Her

Harley Quinn Season 4 Struggles to Give Its Villains Heroic Arcs

Harley Quinn's halfhearted efforts at rehabilitating...

Although she began as a supervillain's sidekick, Harley Quinn has since morphed into one of entertainment's most popular leading ladies. Her thick Brooklyn accent and red and black harlequin attire make her an instantly recognizable DC Comics character -- and also one of its most profitable. In a 2016 interview with Vulture, DC Comics co-publisher Jim Lee, called Harley "the fourth pillar in our publishing line, behind Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman." That's some impressive company to keep.

Update September 1, 2023: In honor of the passing of original Harley Quinn voice actor Arleen Sorkin, this article has been updated to further examine the legacy of the character to which she gave life.

With her zany personality and infectious charm, Harley Quinn has conquered everything from comic books to animated shows, to feature films. Of course, her journey didn't start off that way. It took Harley a while to get out from underneath her sadistic master's shadow.

The late Arleen Sorkin has a singular honor among superhero actors. Harley Quinn was created especially for her by Dcau guru Paul Dini, famously matching the actor's own personality. It was intended to solve a logistical problem with a single episode (someone needed to jump out of a cake), but it soon took on a life of its own.

Today, Harley is one of DC's most popular characters, complete with a hit show of her own on Max. But Sorkin, and the Dcau, remain her purest embodiment. Harley appeared 20 times in various projects in the franchise, along with another eight cameos where Sorkin's voice wasn't used. It's a staggering number for a character intended for one-and-out status, even without considering her long-term legacy. The episodes that used the actor are ranked below, from worst to best.

Related: Top 10 Superhero Movie Villains With No Superpowers

Btas: 'Lock-Up' Season 2, Episode...

The late Arleen Sorkin may be the definitive Harley Quinn, originating the role in Batman: The Animated Series after her friend Paul Dini wrote it just for her. Harley has evolved far beyond those roots, both in the comics and in subsequent adaptations where actors like Margot Robbie and Kaley Cuoco put their own spin on the character. But they never would have had their chance without Sorkin leading the way.

Her performances in the Dcau firmly established the early stages of Harley's career, as The Joker's oft-abused lover and sidekick. But while her version of the character never broke with him, she planted the seeds of the more rounded Harley in subsequent adaptations. Here's a rundown of her most memorable performances in the role that she continues to define.

Related: 10 Ways The Dcau Changed DC Comics Continuity

The New Batman Adventures: 'Beware the Creeper' Season 1, Episode 23

"Beware the...

Batman: The Animated Series introduced a generation of fans to the Caped Crusader, but it also made longtime DC aficionados familiar with one feisty villainess. Harley Quinn is now a popular character in her own right, but she started out as The Joker's sidekick in the cartoon. Voiced by Arleen Sorkin, Harley has gone on to become a major DC icon

Sadly, Arleen Sorkin passed away recently, leaving a huge void in the Batman and Harley Quinn fandoms. While many hardcore fans recognize her name and associate it with the Harley, not as many are aware of how much she inspired the character. Several elements that made Harley Quinn a hit were influenced by the woman who voiced her, with Sorkin even knowing one of the minds behind the popular 1990s Batman cartoon. Thus, it's easily arguable that Arleen Sorkin didn't just voice Harley Quinn -- she was her true creator.

John de Lancie is known the galaxy over as Star Trek‘s omnipotent Q, but it’s his actual breakout role in the mid-80s as eccentric inventor/psychic Eugene Bradford on Days of Our Lives that sparks some of his most joyous career memories. And that was largely, if not completely, due to his partnership with leading lady/comedic foil Arleen Sorkin.

Speaking to TVLine in the wake of Sorkin’s death last week at age 67, de Lancie exalts, “I never had more fun acting than with Arleen on Days of Our Lives,” adding, “Over the last 40 years, I...

Sugar and Spice, two characters from Batman Forever, make a nostalgic appearance in Harley Quinn season four. The duo shows up at the Legion of Doom's party celebrating the death of a beloved DC hero death. Many fans will no doubt enjoy the return of these characters, played in Batman Forever by Drew Barrymore and Debi Mazar.

Warning! The following contains Spoilers for Harley Quinn season four, episode six, Metamorphosis.

Sugar and Spice and everything nice! Season four of Max’s Harley Quinn series just got even more nostalgic. The show doesn’t stray away from dipping its toes into The Dark Knight’s mythology of characters. And now, a pair of Batman Forever mainstays have been introduced nearly three decades after Drew Barrymore and Debi Mazar first portrayed them in director Joel Schumacher’s 1995 film.

Sugar and Spice are two molls who were created specifically for Batman Forever. Debi...

Arleen Sorkin, the acclaimed original voice behind Harley Quinn in Batman: The Animated Series and a well-known actor from Days of Our Lives passed away at the age of 67. The sad news of Sorkin's passing was conveyed by DC Studios CEO James Gunn via an Instagram post. In his tribute, Gunn paid homage to Sorkin's immense talent and acknowledged her pivotal role in shaping the beloved character of Harley Quinn, extending heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.

Arleen Sorkin, the original voice and inspiration behind Batman villain Harley Quinn, has died at the age of 67, TheWrap has learned. The news broke on social media Saturday, with numerous fans and colleagues sharing their memories of the actress and the character she helped bring to the screen.

Unlike most characters in the world of Batman, Harley Quinn did not make her debut in the DC comic books, but rather in the acclaimed ’90s animated show “Batman: The Animated Series.” Sorkin first played Quinn on the show’s seventh episode “Joker’s Favor,” with the character initially set to only appear in a single episode. But she became a recurring part of the main cast after a rough cut of the episode was met well by the producers.

Prior to “Batman: The Animated Series,” Sorkin was best known for playing dressmaker Calliope Jones on “Days of Our Lives” from 1984-...

Arleen Sorkin, the original voice of Harley Quinn from “Batman: The Animated Series” and “Days of Our Lives” actor, died on Thursday. She was 67.

DC Studios CEO James Gunn shared the news of Sorkin’s death on Saturday in a post on Instagram.

“Rest in Peace, Arleen Sorkin, the incredibly talented original voice of Harley Quinn, who helped to create the character so many of us love. Love to her family and friends.”

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A post shared by James Gunn (@jamesgunn)

Sorkin began her career in the entertainment industry by working in a comedy troupe and as a cabaret performer in the ‘70s and ‘80s. She landed her role as Calliope Jones in “Days of Our Lives” in 1984.

Sorkin’s performance in “Days of Our Lives” scored her two Emmy nominations for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series in 1988 and 1989. She would hold a permanent...

Arleen Sorkin, who starred on Days of Our Lives and voiced DC Comics villain Harley Quinn for two decades, has died. She was 67 years old. Sorkin died on Thursday, August 24, according to The Hollywood Reporter, and DC Studios Co-CEO James Gunn announced the news on Instagram on Saturday, August 26. Sorkin had been unable to act in recent years to due health complications. A cause of death has not been shared. “Rest in Peace, Arleen Sorkin, the incredibly talented original voice of Harley Quinn, who helped to create the character so many of us love,” Gunn wrote. “Love to her family and friends.” Sorkin starting voicing Harley when DC introduced the Clown Princess of Crime for the first time on the TV show Batman: The Animated Series in 1992. She later played the part in the TV shows Superman: The Animated Series, The New Batman Adventures, Gotham Girls, Static Shock, and Justice League.

Mark Hamill has spoken out about the passing of his Batman: The Animated Series co-star Arleen Sorkin.

Back in 1992, Harley Quinn made her first appearance in Batman: The Animated Series, with the character inspired by Sorkin specifically. With Sorkin also providing the original voice for Harley, she co-starred alongside Hamill as the voice of the Joker. After it was reported that Sorkin had died, Hamill took to X to share a message of tribute, expressing his devastation over the loss along with his gratitude for having known her.

Related: Harley Quinn May Be DC's Fourth Pillar, But She Doesn't Want to Be

Devastated to learn we've lost the brilliant Arleen Sorkin. Not just a wonderful talent, but a truly wonderful person. I'm grateful not only to have worked with her, but to have been her friend. ðŸ™. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family & loved ones. 💔 pic.twitter.com...

Arleen Sorkin, the acclaimed comedic actor who was both the direct inspiration for the creation of Harley Quinn, as well as the original voice of the iconic character, has passed away at the age of 67. After unconfirmed reports of her death appeared on social media on Saturday, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the actor's passing, which occurred earlier this week, following a long illness that had left Sorkin unable to act in recent years.

Sorkin's first big break in show business was working in cabaret in the late 1970s. In the early 1980s, she formed the comedy quartet, The High-Heeled Women, along with Mary Fulham, Tracey Berg, and Cassandra Danz. The group would mix comedy with singing and dancing in a popular cabaret act...

Her High-Heeled Women work eventually landed Sorkin a gig on the hit daytime soap opera, Days of Our Lives, where she played the wacky Calliope Jones.

Voice actress Arleen Sorkin, known for her iconic portrayal of Harley Quinn, has passed away at age 67. She first gained recognition for her role as Calliope Jones on Days of Our Lives. Sorkin's performance as Harley Quinn in Batman: The Animated Series was originally intended to be a one-off character, but her charm and personality made her a fan favorite, leading to her own comics and appearances in other DC shows and games. Sorkin's legacy as Harley Quinn will continue on through other voice actresses such as Tara Strong and Kaley Cuoco, as well as through Margot Robbie's portrayal in live-action films. She will be dearly missed by fans and the voice acting community. #RIPArleenSorkin

It is a dark day in Gotham City. Arleen Sorkin, the woman behind the criminally iconic Harley Quinn, has passed away at age 67. Fellow voice actor Neil Kaplan tweeted earlier today announcing her passing,...

A legend is no longer with us, for Arleen Sorkin has died at the age of 67. The news was first reported by voice actor Neil Kaplan and later confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter. She is survived by her husband and their two sons. DC Studios co-ceo James Gunn shared a tribute to Sorkin on Instagram, and her old friend and co-star Mark Hamill wrote: "Not just a wonderful talent, but a truly wonderful person. I'm grateful not only to have worked with her, but to have been her friend."

Mrs. Sorkin is most remembered for being the original voice of the DC Comics character Harley Quinn. She played the part across 17 years, beginning in "Batman: The Animated Series" in 1992 and for the last time in the 2009 video game, "Batman: Arkham Asylum." We'll talk about this part of her legacy soon, but first, let's be clear — Sorkin was not a one-trick pony.

Arleen Sorkin, the original Harley Quinn and Days of Our Lives star, has died.

She was 67.

James Gunn revealed Sorkin's death in a statement via Instagram.

"Rest in Peace, Arleen Sorkin, the incredibly talented original voice of Harley Quinn, who helped to create the character so many of us love. Love to her family and friends."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sorkin passed away Thursday. Her health issues kept her from acting in recent years.

Sorkin played Calliope Jones on Days from 1984 to 1990 as a regular cast member.

She returned in 1992, 2006, and 2010, with fans consistently tuning in for her portrayal as Salem's beloved fashion designer and wedding planner.

The actress scored two Daytime Emmy nominations in 1988 and 1989 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.

Sorkin was familiar to fans of daytime TV, but she was also well known for originating the role of Harley Quinn.

She lent her...